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Induction of suppressor T cells by interleukin 2
Journal of Immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950)
|July 1, 1984
Summary
Interleukin 2 (IL 2) at high concentrations suppresses cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) generation by inducing suppressor T cells. Lower IL 2 levels are optimal for CTL induction, suggesting a dual role for IL 2 in immune responses.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Interleukin 2 (IL 2) is crucial for T cell proliferation and differentiation.
- The role of IL 2 concentration in regulating cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) responses is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the differential effects of IL 2 concentrations on T cell growth and CTL induction.
- To elucidate the mechanisms by which IL 2 regulates CTL responses, including potential suppressive roles.
Main Methods:
- In vitro culture of T cells and spleen cells.
- Mixed lymphocyte cultures (MLC) to generate alloreactive CTL.
- Assays to measure T cell growth, CTL activity, and suppressor cell induction.
Main Results:
- Higher IL 2 concentrations (10-30%) promoted T cell growth but suppressed CTL generation.
- Lower IL 2 concentrations (1-3%) were optimal for inducing alloreactive CTL.
- High IL 2 concentrations induced antigen-nonspecific and augmented antigen-specific suppressor T cells, which inhibited CTL development.
Conclusions:
- IL 2 exhibits a dual role in regulating CTL responses: promoting effector cell differentiation at low levels and inducing suppressor cells at high levels.
- The findings suggest a regulatory mechanism where initial low IL 2 supports CTL expansion, while subsequent high IL 2 dampens the response via suppressor T cells.